The music industry is mourning the passing of another legendary Rhythm and Blues singer this year. On October 11, Rudolph Isley, one of six Isley brothers, died at the age of 84, leaving behind a legacy dating back to the 1950s.
Isley was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, on April 1, 1939. Also called Rudy, he began singing in church at a young age and, by his teen years, formed a group with his brothers O’Kelly “Kelly” Isley, Ronald “Ronnie” Isley, and Vernon. Their brother Vernon passed away shortly after the group formed, and the rest relocated to New York, hoping for a record deal.
He and his brothers snagged a deal with RCA Records in 1959. They wrote and recorded their Grammy Hall of Fame single, “Shout,” and the rest was history.
Rudolph Isley was known as the fur attire guru—always fashionably making a statement whether he was on stage, on a carpet, or at a photoshoot.
In 1992, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Being a Hall of Famer means you’ve contributed a lot of influence, creativity, and style to the Rock and Roll community. As a member of the Isley brothers, Rudolph did just that. The group has released hit songs and albums since their ’50s debut, providing the industry and fans with doses of classic sounds.
Rudolph was one of the founders of T-Neck Records.
In the 1960s, The Isley Brothers were on fire, and no amount of water could douse their flame. They founded T-Neck Records to promote their recordings and more. Following the label’s formation, the Isleys recorded compositions with their band, which included a then-unknown Jimi Hendrix as the guitarist.
Although Rudolph left the group in 1989, he often appeared on talk shows and award shows with his brother Ronald to discuss their impact.
Image credit: The Jennifer Hudson Show/ Youtube segment screenshot
